After working out the deal with Heat GM Andy Elisburg, Altman let Wade make the final decision about where he would spend the rest of the season.
Via ESPN:
With the Heat on board, Altman had two people to talk to: first James, then Wade.
Much as Lue approached whether Wade would start to begin the season, Altman wanted to leave it up to Wade: stay in Cleveland with a reduced role or return to the franchise that drafted him and made him the star he is today.
"Absolutely. It should be his decision," James told Altman, according to sources.
Wade understood the direction the Cavs were going and appreciated the option. Miami was an easy choice.